Depakote
DivalproexIndications
- Medication used to treat seizure disorders, the manic phase of bipolar disorder, and prevent migraine headaches.
- Functions by restoring the balance of specific natural substances (neurotransmitters) in the brain.
Dosage and administration
- Read the Medication Guide and Patient Information Leaflet before taking divalproex sodium and consult your doctor or pharmacist with any questions.
- Take the medication orally as directed by the doctor and consider taking it with food if stomach upset occurs.
- Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush or chew to avoid irritation of the mouth or throat.
- Dosage is determined by age, weight, medical condition, response to treatment, and other medications. Inform your doctor and pharmacist about all products you use.
- Use the medication regularly at the same time each day for maximum benefit and to maintain a constant level in the blood.
- If the medication is prescribed for seizures, do not stop taking it suddenly without consulting your doctor to avoid worsening of your condition; gradual dose reduction may be necessary.
- Divalproex sodium does not relieve acute migraine headaches; follow your doctor’s instructions for acute attacks.
- Inform your doctor if your condition does not improve.
Side effects
- Possible side effects include diarrhea, dizziness, drowsiness, hair loss, blurred/double vision, menstrual period changes, ringing in the ears, shakiness (tremor), unsteadiness, and weight changes.
- If these effects persist or worsen, inform your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
- Seeing partial tablets in stool may rarely occur, especially in those with intestinal disorders; report this to your doctor immediately.
- This medication is prescribed because the benefits are deemed greater than the risks, and many users do not experience serious side effects.
- Anticonvulsants, including this medication, may lead to depression, suicidal thoughts/attempts, or other mental/mood problems; notify your doctor of any unusual/sudden changes in mood, thoughts, or behavior.
- Rarely, severe brain disorder (encephalopathy) may occur, especially in those with certain metabolic disorders; seek medical attention for unexplained weakness, vomiting, or sudden mental/mood changes.
- Seek immediate medical help for serious side effects, such as chest pain, unexplained bleeding, irregular heartbeat, swelling of hands/feet, uncontrolled eye movement, feeling cold/shivering, rapid breathing, or loss of consciousness.
- A very serious allergic reaction is rare but requires immediate medical attention; symptoms include fever, swollen lymph nodes, rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, and trouble breathing.
- This list does not cover all possible side effects; contact your doctor or pharmacist for any unlisted effects.
Precautions
- Before taking divalproex sodium, inform your doctor or pharmacist about allergies, especially to valproic acid or valproate sodium, and inquire about inactive ingredients.
- Discuss your medical history, particularly liver disease, pancreatitis, metabolic disorders, alcohol abuse, bleeding problems, brain disease, kidney disease, dehydration, and poor nutrition.
- Exercise caution with sharp objects and avoid activities like contact sports to minimize the risk of injury.
- Inform your doctor or dentist about all products you use, including prescriptions, non-prescriptions, and herbal products, before surgery.
- This drug may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision; avoid activities requiring alertness. Alcohol or marijuana use can intensify these effects.
- Children under 6 years may face a higher risk of liver problems and pancreatitis.
- Older adults are more sensitive to side effects, increasing the risk of falling due to drowsiness, dizziness, unsteadiness, or tremor.
- If pregnant or planning pregnancy, discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor; using divalproex sodium during pregnancy may harm the unborn baby.
- This medication passes into breast milk; consult your doctor before breastfeeding to assess potential risks to nursing infants.
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